Rogue Traders

We would like to make residents aware of reports of rogue traders operating within the local area.

Rogue traders often target vulnerable residents, particularly elderly people or those living alone, offering services such as roofing work, driveway repairs, gardening, gutter cleaning, or other property maintenance. They may claim that urgent work is required, use high-pressure sales tactics, or demand excessive payment for poor-quality or unnecessary work.

While many tradespeople are legitimate and provide valuable services, we encourage residents to remain cautious when approached by unsolicited callers offering work.

Crime Prevention Advice:

• Be wary of anyone who arrives uninvited offering to carry out repairs or maintenance.
• Do not agree to work on the spot or feel pressured into making immediate decisions.
• Obtain at least three quotes from reputable companies before committing to any work.
• Ask for identification and check credentials where possible.
• Never hand over large amounts of cash or make payments before agreed work has been completed satisfactorily.
• Speak with family members, friends, or trusted neighbours before agreeing to significant work or expenditure.
• Consider displaying a "No Cold Callers" sticker at your property.
• Look out for elderly or vulnerable neighbours who may be at greater risk of becoming victims.

Warning signs can include traders claiming work is urgently needed, offering a "special price today only", requesting cash payments, or becoming aggressive when challenged.

If you have concerns about suspicious traders in your area, or believe someone may have been targeted, please report the matter to police via 101 or online. If a crime is in progress, or you feel threatened or intimidated, call 999 immediately.

By remaining vigilant and looking out for one another, we can help protect vulnerable members of our community from doorstep crime.

All the best,

Jamie